As we edge ever more closely to the easing of some COVID-19 enforced restrictions it is worthwhile just looking back over the past few months.
We saw the utter devastation that this virus has caused in Europe and the USA. The early predictions even for our country were dire. Then our government, federal and state stepped in and with the assistance of the health experts took steps to try to avert a national disaster. And while we have seen a number of unfortunate deaths we do appear to have averted the worst of the virus impacts.
There is still the winter period to go so we still need to remain vigilant. Understanding more about this virus, its causes, impacts and possible cures brings less fear, but certainly should not bring complacency.
We need to be ever vigilant in our personal lives and importantly in our businesses where our staff and customers rely on us. We have all been reminded in recent times of the vital role convenience stores play in local communities across Australia. With people shying away from visiting larger centres, our stores are a convenient, preferred destination in many cases.
Convenience stores are local places for people to buy milk, bread, food and beverages, and other essential items. We want to continue to be able to do this in the most convenient way possible, and this means keeping as many stores trading for longer hours as possible.
As the coronavirus pandemic plays out, the need to coordinate the industry’s efforts to ensure convenience stores remain recognised as an essential service is paramount. The term ‘essential service’ is key here.
The AACS effectively lobbied the Australian Government to ensure convenience stores can remain open to serve consumers, being deemed an ‘essential service’, and we’re also in contact with Government and competition authorities to ensure our stores receive their fair share of supply of critical items along with the major supermarkets.
Like all businesses and industries, COVID-19 has presented new challenges to convenience retailers and suppliers, as consumers change their behaviours to adapt to the new norm. Specifically, one of the challenges our industry has faced through the pandemic is supply of critical items like grocery items, hygiene products, sanitisers and the like.
Putting in place strict hygiene protocols and adhering to health guidelines are a must.
Some useful links:
Stay safe…..and keep washing those hands…..
Jeff Rogut
AACS CEO
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